Ord. Wk 27th October 8, 2018
Reflection on the WORD
“Neighbour”: In today’s Gospel, Jesus’ Parable of the Good Samaritan challenges us to love and care for our neighbour inclusively; more so when they are in great need. Can we see Jesus in our neighbours and sense their pain and suffering? If we love Jesus, then how much compassion have we shown towards our neighbours?
Lk 10:29-34.36-37
A lawyer was anxious to justify himself and said to Jesus, ‘And who is my neighbour?’ In answer Jesus said, ‘A man was once on his way down from Jerusalem to Jericho and fell into the hands of bandits; they stripped him, beat him and then made off, leaving him half dead. Now a priest happened to be travelling down the same road, but when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side.
In the same way a Levite who came to the place saw him, and passed by on the other side.
But a Samaritan traveller who came on him was moved with compassion when he saw him. He went up to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring oil and wine on them. He then lifted him onto his own mount and took him to an inn and looked after him.
Which of these three, do you think, proved himself a neighbour to the man who fell into the bandits' hands?’ He replied, ‘The one who showed pity towards him.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Go, and do the same yourself.’
Today's Pointers on God's Word
As you read the passage what words, phases or meanings caught your attention?
- Jesus wants to teach us that our neighbour is anyone who needs our love and compassion, regardless of race, religion, political beliefs.
- God invites us to care for others and to experience God’s grace of the blessing that comes when we give generously without expecting any return or when we serve selflessly without counting the cost.
- What are the obstacles in my heart that prevent me from responding with charity and compassion to the needs of others? Am I too busy, too frightened, too complacent or too frivolous? Ponder on this truth of your life.